Laughter, music and dancing will be featured in the 2013 edition of the Rivertown Follies, set for performances at 8 p.m. Thursday, Friday and Saturday at the Cheboygan Opera House.

Probably more than can be imagined.

After all, this year’s edition of the show, titled “Follies Yearbook ― Remember When,” marks the 30th anniversary of a format that involves local talent in spoofs of movies, television programs and popular songs through singing, dancing and plenty of comedy skits. Director Suzanne Stark has been rehearsing various actors, dancers and vocalists to put together this year’s mammoth show.

“We are a very large cast; the biggest in years,” said Northland Players’ publicist Renee Pelon. “We have about140 people including cast and crew. The caveman scene we did a few years back ― we have all the same guys back. Some old-timers have come back too with the new. We have 25 kids in the show.”

Pelon said the large numbers have necessitated some logistical accommodations.

“Because of the problems with having such a big cast it has even affected where we are going to dress,” Pelon said. “We are also enlarging the stage by opening up the back to the black curtain to give the stage depth. Jay Johnston built special steps with lights behind them to make it look great, but we still have to open up the back.”

Because of the 30-year anniversary, Pelon has been researching the history of the Rivertown Follies. She estimated that over the years the group has donated in excess of $100,000 to area causes.

“We have given to 62 charities, some multiple times,” Pelon noted. “We have supported the Opera House, and I believe we were one of the first shows in the renovated Opera House in May 1984. We have supported Project Playland, the Mackinaw Band Shell, bought risers, scrims for the Opera House, Habitat For Humanity, the Special Olympics, it just goes on and on.”

This year’s charities are the Cheboygan Compassionate Ministries, Straits Area Services and Northern Care Center.

“It is really something and makes me very proud to be a part of it for 24 of the 30 years,” Pelon added. “We have had 60 different board members over the years.”

Rivertown Follies tickets are on sale at the Opera House priced at $10 for all seats Thursday, with tickets for Friday and Saturday available in advance for $11 and for $12 at the door.